Spring
Spring in the New Forest
Forest - Gorse bushes send out their yellow flowers as if a sign for the sun to start shining. In many of the streams and ponds frog spawn appears as the new life wiggles within.
Foals - During the spring the mares give birth to their foals on the open forest, it's always wonderful to spot the first foal of the season
Blue Bell Walks- there are several areas of the New Forest with amazing displays of Blue Bells to enjoy
Exbury Gardens - visit the displays of Azaleas and Rhododendrons
Summer
Summer in the New Forest
Forest - Over the summer months heather on the heathlands turns a glorious shade of purple
Beaches - We have numerous local beaches within a short drive on Butcher's Cottage
Isle of Wight - A regular ferry leaves from Lymington for those wishing to explore the Island
Round the Island Race - For those who like an early start head down to Hurst Castle to watch the world famous Round the Island Yacht Race round the Needles
Bournemouth Air show - Late summer sees hundreds flock to the area for the Bournemouth Air Show
New Forest and Hampshire Show - For 3 days at the end of July New Park in Brockenhurst is transformed into a show ground for over 100,000 visitors]
Lymington Sea Food Festival - Mid July
Sway Village Carnival - Every July Sway celebrates with a week of activities and a procession through the village.
Autumn
Autumn in the New Forest
Forest - Leaves on the trees turn in to an amazing display of golden yellows and bright orange, the bracken transforms in to a vibrant rust colour and the acorns start to fall (here come the piggies!!!)
Pannage Season - The release of hundreds of pigs on to the New Forest to eat up the acorns
Exbury Gardens - Beautiful Autumn leaves, miniature railway and Halloween activities
Halloween and Fireworks - Various events throughout the area
Winter & The Festive Season
Winter at Butcher's Cottage
Butcher's Cottage is decorated for the festive period making your stay as homely and enjoyable as possible.
For those lucky enough to be here for Christmas day we include a boneless turkey crown, pigs in blankets, stuffing and streaky bacon in addition to our regular welcome pack.
Winter in the New Forest
Forest - Frosty mornings and the mist rising up from the moors make a breath taking backdrop for those early morning dog walks
Forest Drifts - (the rounding up of the New Forest ponies on horse-back)
Boxing Day - point to point (horse/pony racing across the open forest)
Crisp Frosty Walks - The cold weather makes the forest into a winter wonderland in which you enjoy peaceful walks